Trans-Japan Highway: A Cyclist’s Paradise in the Land of the Rising Sun

Welcome to Japan’s ultimate cycling playground — a route where coastal beauty, local hospitality, and exceptionally well-designed cycling infrastructure come together to create an unforgettable two-wheeled adventure.

If there is a cyclist’s paradise in Japan, it’s called the Shimanami Kaidō. This 70-kilometer route connects the main island of Honshu with Shikoku, winding across six smaller islands in the Seto Inland Sea via a series of spectacular bridges. It’s not just a bike ride — it’s a cultural journey, an architectural marvel, and a love letter to coastal Japan. You’ll enjoy sea breezes, citrus groves, peaceful fishing villages, and plenty of stops for local ramen or lemon sorbet. And the best part? The route is designed with cyclists in mind. Simply put, it ranks among the world’s finest cycling trails.

Stunning views await you

A Cyclist’s Mecca

The Shimanami Kaidō features a dedicated bike path along nearly the entire route, often completely separated from motor traffic. The journey is marked by the famous “Blue Line,” guiding cyclists along the route and highlighting key distances and points of interest. Spiral ramps onto the bridges allow for comfortable ascents without cars, and strategically placed rest areas provide convenience, water, and clear information.

From the very beginning, the ride unfolds like a fairy tale: orange groves and sandy beaches alternate with impressive steel bridges and sleepy towns where time seems to slow down. On Ikuchi-jima Island, you may pass citrus orchards, while on Ōmishima you’ll climb to one of Japan’s historically significant shrines. Finally, the Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge — the longest series of suspension bridges in the world — awaits as a grand finale before arriving in the city of Imabari.

You can enjoy the trip solo, as a couple, or in a group

A Route Steeped in History

Although the modern cycling path was officially opened only in 1999, the islands forming the Shimanami Kaidō corridor have played an important role in Japanese history for centuries. For example, Ōmishima Island is home to Ōyamazumi Shrine, which has over 1,000 years of history and once served as a spiritual center for samurai and sailors.

During the Sengoku period (Warring States), this area was home to the Murakami Kaizoku – powerful naval clans who ruled the Inland Sea, acting both as pirates and as protectors of shipping routes. Today, the sea is still full of life, but instead of warships, recreational boats and cargo vessels now sail these waters.

A Sunset to Captivate You

How to Do It: Cycling the Shimanami Kaidō

Start in Onomichi

Most cyclists begin their journey in Onomichi, a historic port city in Hiroshima Prefecture. It’s easily accessible via the JR Sanyō Main Line (about 90 minutes from Hiroshima). Onomichi makes an excellent starting point, with its narrow streets, hillside temples, and waterfront cafés. From here, a short ferry ride costing 110 yen will take you to Mukaishima Island—allowing you to skip the busy Shin-Onomichi Bridge and comfortably begin your cycling adventure.

Safety Comes First in Japan

Route and Bike Support on Shimanami Kaidō

The route continues in this order:

Mukaishima → Innoshima → Ikuchi-jima → Ōmishima → Hakata-jima → Ōshima → and finally Imabari on Shikoku Island.

Thanks to the Shimanami Rental Cycle system, logistics are simple. There are 13 rental stations along the route, so you can pick up a bike at one end and return it at another. Options include city bikes, road bikes, e-bikes, and even tandems.

Rental prices start at around 2,000 yen/day.
If you don’t return the bike to the rental location, a 1,100 yen one-time fee applies.
Tip: Reserve your bike online in advance, especially during the peak spring and autumn seasons.

For light travel, several companies offer same-day luggage transport from Onomichi to Imabari (or vice versa), so you can enjoy a hassle-free ride and find your luggage waiting at your accommodation in the evening.

You’ll get in touch with nature

Plan your trip properly

Thanks to the well-developed infrastructure and thoughtful support, Shimanami Kaidō is ideal not only for experienced cyclists but also for recreational riders and families.

One day or two?

The most fit cyclists can complete the 70 km route in one day – roughly 6 to 8 hours including breaks.

• Most riders, however, spread the ride over two days to fully enjoy the scenery, visit a few museums, and stay overnight in one of the cozy guesthouses on the islands.
• Ideal overnight stops are on Ikuchi-jima or Ōmishima.

You can even take a dip along the way

When to go?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are the best seasons for the trip – the weather is mild, skies are clear, and the views of the islands are green and fresh.

• Summer can be hot and humid
• Winter is rideable, but brings colder temperatures and shorter days

Interesting spots along the route:

Innoshima Bridge

The first major bridge on the route – it has a dedicated lower deck for cyclists and pedestrians. Offers stunning views of fishing villages and the sparkling sea.

Setoda Town on Ikuchi-jima Island

A popular lunch stop, famous for its citrus products (fresh mikan juice is a must!). Visit the Hirayama Ikuo Art Museum and enjoy a citrus sorbet at the Dolce beach café.

Tatara Bridge

One of the longest suspension bridges in the world, with a beautiful observation deck at the top. Here, you also cross from Hiroshima Prefecture into Ehime Prefecture.

Ōyamazumi Shrine on Ōmishima

This ancient shrine is dedicated to sea gods and warriors. Its treasury holds the largest collection of samurai armor and weapons in Japan.

Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge

The final crossing and a true engineering marvel – nearly 4 km long, with breathtaking views of passing ships and distant islands. It’s your triumphant finale before arriving in Imabari.

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